Effect of reinforcements on mechanical and tribological properties of LM24 aluminium metal matrix composites

Abstract

In the recent days, Aluminium matrix composites have focused their attention in automotive and aerospace industr ial applications due to its exceptional mechanical and tribological characteristics. LM24 Aluminium alloys are the extensively preferred alloy for engineering applications because of their ease of production, good mechanical properties and castability. Superior tribological and mechanical characteristics are desired for this LM24 alloy to satisfy the applications like automobile brake rotors, cylinder liners and connecting rods etc., apart from its structural properties. To enlarge the applications of LM24 Aluminium alloy, the mechanical and tribological properties have to be enhanced. The present research investigates the effect of various reinforcements (Silicon carbide, Molybdenum disulfide and Aluminium oxide) and their various combinations on LM24 metal matrix composites are studied. Hybrid Aluminium Metal Matrix Composites were produced by using a liquid metallurgy process. The result of adding reinforcements on the microstructural, mechanical and tribological behaviour was analysed. The density analysis shows that the inclusion of reinforcement particles in the aluminium matrix composite correspondingly increases the density of prepared composites. From the comparative investigation, LM24+ 4.5% SiC+ 4.5% MoS2 possess a lesser wear rate and good mechanical properties. newline